International Day of Mathematics (IDM) is observed annually on 14th March across the globe to highlight the significance of mathematics in various fields, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), climate change, energy, and sustainable development. This date was chosen as it aligns with Pi Day, representing the mathematical constant π (pi) approximately equal to 3.14.
- 14th March 2025 marks the observance of the 6th IDM.
- The theme of IDM 2025, “Mathematics, Art, and Creativity” celebrates the intersection of mathematical discovery and artistic expression, showcasing how mathematics inspires and enhances creative endeavors.
Background:
The 40th General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), held in November 2019, officially proclaimed March 14 as the IDM through 40C/ Resolution 30.
- The first-ever IDM was observed on March 14, 2020,
Why March 14?
i.Pi Day Celebrations: March 14 (3/14) is celebrated worldwide as Pi Day, honoring the mathematical constant π (pi). The date was chosen because the first three digits of pi are 3.14, aligning with the month and day.
- The Greek letter π was first used to denote this ratio by Welsh mathematician William Jones in 1706.
- Pi is often represented by the lower-case Greek letter ‘n’. Several countries observe March 14 as Pi Day.
ii.Albert Einstein’s Birthday: Pi Day also coincides with the birth anniversary of Albert Einstein, born on March 14, 1879 for his contributions to physics, particularly the theory of relativity.
Significance of the IDM:
i.Global Initiative: IDM is an initiative led by the International Mathematical Union (IMU), supported by numerous international and regional organizations worldwide.
ii.Educational Impact: The day emphasizes the crucial role of mathematics and mathematics education in advancing science and technology and aims to enhance the quality of life, empower women and girls, and contribute to achieving all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda.
iii.Digital Presence: IDM is promoted through its official website, hosted by IMAGINARY, a non-profit organization dedicated to communicating modern mathematics.
Major Goals of IDM:
i.Enhance Public Awareness: Promote understanding of mathematics in education among the general public, policymakers, and educational institutions.
ii.Promote Gender Equality: Empower women and girls in mathematics, aligning with SDG5 .
iii.Address Global Challenges: Highlight mathematics’ role in combating disasters, epidemics, emerging diseases, and invasive species, supporting SDG11.
iv.Foster International Collaboration: Strengthen global networks and partnerships to enhance public engagement with mathematics.
2025 Events:
i.On the occasion of IDM 2025, the UNESCO in collaboration with the IMU and the IMAGINARY hosted a webinar focused on the theme ‘Mathematics, Art, and Creativity’.
- The webinar explores how mathematical concepts inspire creativity in art and education, fostering innovation across disciplines.
Note: Professor Anita Rampal of Delhi University (DU), New Delhi (Delhi) serves as the National IDM Ambassador for India.
About International Mathematical Union (IMU):
President – Hiraku Nakajima (Japan)
Headquarters – Berlin, Germany
Established– 1920
